A lecturer from Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) has introduced an innovative solar-powered fish smoking system designed to support sustainable fisheries while reducing environmental pollution. The project is led by Risse Entikaria Rachmanita, who developed the technology as part of a research program funded through the 2025 DPPM BIMA Program.

The innovation integrates solar energy utilization with a pyrolysis system and a naturally cooled spiral condenser. Unlike conventional fish smoking methods, which release large amounts of smoke directly into the atmosphere, the new system captures and processes the smoke into a valuable by-product known as liquid smoke.

According to Risse, traditional fish smoking practices often contribute to air pollution because most of the smoke generated during combustion escapes into the environment. Through the newly developed technology, the smoke is condensed and transformed into liquid smoke, creating a cleaner and more sustainable production process.

The liquid smoke produced by the system has significant economic potential. It can be used as a natural food preservative and may also serve as a raw material for various derivative products. This additional output provides fish processors with new opportunities to diversify their products and increase their income.

One of the key advantages of the technology is its environmentally friendly design. The spiral condenser operates using a natural cooling mechanism without requiring additional electrical energy, making the system highly energy-efficient and suitable for small-scale fisheries and coastal communities.

Furthermore, the device incorporates a smoke filtration system that helps remove harmful compounds before the smoke is converted into liquid form. This process improves the quality and safety of the liquid smoke while ensuring that fewer pollutants are released into the surrounding environment.

With a single piece of equipment, users can simultaneously produce smoked fish and high-quality liquid smoke. This dual-function capability enhances production efficiency and creates additional economic value for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the fisheries sector.

The development of this solar-powered fish smoking technology reflects Polije’s commitment to creating practical innovations that support food security, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment. The institution hopes that the technology will improve the livelihoods of fishery entrepreneurs in Jember and beyond while promoting the adoption of renewable energy solutions in Indonesia’s coastal regions.